CULPEPER/CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — Representatives from the Chesterfield County Police and Culpeper County Sheriff’s Office are reaching out in an effort to make citizens aware of a recent scam in which the culprits are posing as members of law enforcement to steal money from their victims.

In the Chesterfield scam, police say several people have received calls from a local number claiming to be “Officer/Sergeant Phillips” with the Sheriff’s Office. The suspect then tells victims to send money using a pre-paid card to avoid being arrested for failing to appear for jury duty.

Chesterfield Police said that they and the Chesterfield County Sheriff’s Office will never ask citizens to buy pre-paid cards and send money to avoid jail time.

Instead of giving the callers what they want, police say citizens should call them at 804-748-1251 to report any incidents.

In the Culpeper scam, police say multiple citizens have complained about receiving calls from a male suspect calling and posing as a Culpeper County Deputy Sheriff.

The suspect in these cases asked for personal information and demanded money of the citizens to avoid being arrested for a missed court appearance.

Culpeper Police also ask that if you receive such a call, you contact them at 540-727-0300.

This is a developing story. Stay with 8News online and on air for the latest updates.